Obituaries

We now have over 7,000 obituaries collected about the interred here at Silverbrook Cemetery.

The obituaries are transcribed by the volunteers of the Friends of Silverbrook Cemetery from various sources.  If you see an opportunity for an addition or a correction, please email our obituary editor at obits@friendsofsilverbrook.org.

Archer, Rosa Lee (Carpenter) 1937-2024

Rosa Lee (Carpenter) Archer
July 21, 1937-December 17, 2024

Published on Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services website:

Rosa Lee (Carpenter) Archer, 87, of New Port Richey, Florida, formerly of Niles, MI, a sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, follower of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully at Trinity Hospital in New Port Richey with her daughter by her side.

Rosa was born on July 21,1937, in Niles, Michigan to Rosa T. (Dewey) Carpenter and Bion A. Carpenter. Surviving is her sister, Sharon Botts of Edwardsburg, Michigan. Rosa was preceded in death by her siblings, Norma Hartline, Effie Herrington, Bion Carpenter Jr., Duane Carpenter, Marjorie Bauer, and Fredrick Carpenter.

On July 30, 1955, Rosa married Alfred Earl Archer Jr. who preceded her in death on February 11, 1990. In her younger years she worked at Simplicity Pattern in Niles, Michigan. Rosa was also a homemaker and a mother of 2 children. Her daughter Catherine Rose Archer preceded her in death on November 21, 2022. Surviving to carry on her memory is her daughter, Diane M. Scott of Port Richey, Florida; grandchildren, Dannette (Jerry Ramirez) Archer of South Bend, Indiana, Ally Spencer of South Bend, Indiana, Daniel Spencer of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Brandon Scofield of Mishawaka, Indiana, Adrianne (Jason) McCrorey of Dowagiac, Michigan, and Rene (Bruce) Baughman of Edwardsburg, Michigan; 13 great grandchildren, Destiny, Sheyla, Keijuan, Zeilia, Alvin, Aniyah, Hannah, Andrew, Aiden, Genevieve, Gabriel, Xavier, and Charisma, and 2 great-great grandchildren. One great grandchild, Uriah Scofield preceded her in death on July 1, 2020.

Rosa loved to laugh. She always had a smile on her face, even at the end. She enjoyed painting, coloring, dancing, music, cross stitch, and reading her bible. She always made sure she looked her best (boy did she love her hats)! Her Christmas shoes and hat were the funniest. She enjoyed listening to Elvis and old-time country music.

We would like to thank the staff at The Pavillion of New Port Richey, and Nina for treating her to her favorite strawberry shake, and the kind visits along the way. She loved giving hugs and being helpful during her stay there.

She relocated to Port Richey, FL in 2016 to be closer to her daughter. She loved the warm weather and the new friends she made. It was a new adventure for her. She even got her ears pierced at 82!! Her smile will never be forgotten!

Remember Me.

Don’t remember me with sadness, don’t remember me with tears, remember all the laughter we’ve shared throughout the years. Now I am contented that my life was worthwhile, knowing that I passed along the way I made somebody smile. When you are walking down the street and you’ve got me on your mind, I’m walking in your footsteps only half a step behind. So please don’t be unhappy just because I’m out of sight, remember that I’m with you each morning, noon and night.

Those willing to honor Rosa Lee’s memory by helping with her final expenses can do so through a GoFundMe link that has been set up to bring her home. https://gofund.me/981a1ddf.

Visitation for Rosa will be on Friday, January 3, 2025, from 12:00pm to 1:00pm with a Funeral Service to be held at 1:00pm at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main St. Niles, MI 49120. Burial will immediately follow at Silverbrook Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.

 

Clark, Lloyd James 1944-2024

Lloyd James Clark
August 24, 1944 — December 29, 2024

Published on Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home website:

 Lloyd Clark, age 80, of Buchanan, died Sunday December 29, 2024, in the comfort of his family’s presence.

 His life began August 24,1944 in Chicago, Illinois, born to Lloyd and Izora Clark. Lloyd was a hard- working and quiet man. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam and he spent 30 years as a ship captain at Tidewater Industries. Lloyd could often be found on his rocking chair, smoking on his front porch.

Lloyd will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife Rae Ann McBain Clark; two sons, David and Christopher Clark of Buchanan; two grandchildren, Shelby Hall of Dowagiac, Jack Clark of Rutherfordton, North Carolina; three great grandchildren, Hunter, Dustin and Paisley. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

  The family will observe a private remembrance. Lloyd will be laid to rest in Silverbrook cemetery.

  Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services. Memories can be left at HalbritterWickens.com

 

Ranschaert, Cynthia Jane (Mayhew) 1957-2025

Cynthia Jane (Mayhew) Ranschaert
April 12, 1957-January 20, 2025

Posted online on January 22, 2025 Published in South Bend Tribune

Cynthia Jane (Mayhew) Ranschaert, 67 years old of Edwardsburg, MI passed to her rest Jan 20, 2025 at the Raclin House Hospice in Mishawaka after having a stroke exactly five months earlier. She was born Apr 12, 1957 at Camp LeJune, NC, the daughter of Paul E and Betty L. (Hambrick) Mayhew. Cindy's Dad was a Hospital Corpsman for the Navy, stationed at Camp LeJune, and she was born in the Naval Hospital. When her Dad ended his service, the family moved to Niles, before coming to Edwardsburg in 1958 when the Mayhew Family started the Paul E Mayhew Funeral Home.

Cindy attended the Edwardsburg Public School System, where she graduated in the Class of 1975, and then continued her education at Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac, graduating with an Associate Degree in Science. She went to Western University in Kalamazoo to further her interest in Histology. She came back to home, worked for the South Bend Medical Foundation in the Histology Department for several years.

Cindy grew up in the Paul E Mayhew Funeral Home, assisting her father and mother in the funeral work, was an ambulance driver and attendant. After leaving the Medical Foundation, Cindy began working full time for her father in the Paul E Mayhew Funeral Home being secretary, and assisting on funeral arranging, up to the time of her last illness.

Cindy met a South Bend-Mishawaka man, Douglas J Ranschaert and they were married May 12, 1989 in the back yard of her parents home. Surviving is her husband Doug, a granddaughter Alyssa (Curtis) Allen of Mishawaka, her father Paul E Mayhew. Family who preceded her in passing are her mother, Betty L Mayhew, her sister, Elena Diane (Poppy-Mayhew) Holt.

Family and friends may gather on Wednesday, Jan 29, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Hope Church, 69941 Elkhart Road, Edwardsburg. Her memorial service will be conducted by Pastor Rob Snodgrass and Pastor Charles Winter of Battle Creek. Pastor Winter formerly was a next-door neighbor to the Mayhews when in High School and a family friend most of his life.

There was a private family service of Saturday, Jan 25, 2025 and Cindy was buried at Silverbrook Cemetery, Niles, where all the other family are located. Memorial Donation may be directed to Edwardsburg Historical Collections, P.O. Box 694 Edwardsburg, MI 49112-0694. This is located across from Cindy's home. Arrangements are by her Father, Paul E Mayhew Funeral Home, Edwardsburg.

Gregory, Walter Essie 1926-2025

Elder Walter Gregory
June 14, 1926 ~ January 12, 2025

Published on Alford Mortuary website:

Elder Walter Gregory Obituary

It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Walter Essie Gregory, who peacefully departed this life on January 12, 2025, at the age of 98.

Born on June 14, 1926, in Oceola, Arkansas, to the late Willie and Laura Gregory. Walter lived a humble life rich in love, purpose and resilience. He was a devoted husband to Rosie Lee Moffitt of blessed memory, a cherished father to Dorothy, Delores, Beverly, Walter Jr., Edith and Doneal, a proud grandfather and a beloved friend to many.

Walter worked many jobs notably with Tex Border Union 645 from 1951-1954. This company built the first housing authority building in South Bend Indiana. He also helped with construction at Notre Dame. After that he joined Fernwood for 24 years until he retired.

Throughout his nearly century-long life Walter touched countless lives with his unwavering kindness, sharp wit, and gentle spirit. His dedication and passion for craftmanship was matched only by his love for family and community. He was known for his storytelling, generosity, sense of humor and leaving behind a legacy of wisdom and compassion.

In his free time Walter enjoyed gardening, woodworking and interestingly, dancing, he shared anecdotes of his smooth dancing skills and splits and how he became known as a dancing machine among his peers for the numerous contests he won and as always, embracing life’s simple joys. His stories, laughter, and warm presence will be deeply missed but forever treasured in the hearts of those who knew him.

Despite his zest for life Walter was an ardent believer in Christ, having volunteered and worked with various churches from Niles MI and South Bend IN through outreach programs or evangelism. He also served faithfully as an Elder at River of Life Family Church for many years.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Rosie Lee Gregory (Moffitt), his siblings Willie Frank Jr., David, Laura, Liza, Carrie, Lily, Jessie.

He is survived by his children, Dorothy (Jessie) Griffin of Memphis, TN, Rachel Dillard, of South Bend, IN, Beverly Gregory of South Bend, IN, Walter (Dorothy) Gregory of Niles MI, Edith (Arnold Alvin) Sey of Mishawaka, IN, Doneal Gregory of South Bend, IN and a host of Nieces, Nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and other close relatives.

Though he may be gone from our sight Walter will remain forever in our hearts.

DeLand, Carl Steven 1935-2025

Carl Steven DeLand
September 8, 1935 — January 9, 2025

Published on Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home website:

 Carl DeLand, 89, of Niles, died peacefully Thursday, January 9, 2025 in the comfort of his family’s presence.

 His life began September 8, 1935 in Monroe, Michigan the first of two children born to Carl Gordon and Esther A. DeLand. He married Kathleen Maager in the Cassopolis Methodist Church on December 27, 1957, recently celebrating 67 years. She survives.

 Carl served his country in the U.S. Marine Corp., U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army from which he retired in 1996, with twenty-one years of combined service. Carl graduated from Bethel College with a Bachelors degree in 1972. Following graduation, he worked at Bendix as an accountant. He also taught cost accounting part time at Southwestern College.

 Carl was a loyal Cubs and Bears fan. He was also an avid golfer, he golfed in a league at Brookwood and enjoyed sports in general. Carl enjoyed traveling across the United States, especially Hawaii, where he we would visit Pearl Harbor. He was a proud to be a citizen of the United States of America. Carl enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren supporting them in all their sporting events and activities.

 Carl will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen of Niles; daughters, Suzette (Jim) Doolittle, Diane (Joe) Sharkey; son, Carl Robert (Christine) DeLand; six grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and his sister, Marie Jo Springer and several nieces and nephews.

  Family and friends will gather for a memorial service 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 24, 2025, in the Buchanan Seventh-day Adventist Church, 3115 Niles Buchanan Road, Buchanan, Michigan 49017. 

 Carl will be laid to rest in Silverbrook Cemetery, Niles. 

 The family prefers contributions in memory of Carl be made to, United Service Organization (USO) by visiting USO.org.

  Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services. Please leave a condolence at HalbritterWickens.com

Cleary, Philip Ryan 1988-2024

Philip Ryan Cleary 
July 19, 1988-September 22, 2024

Published on Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services website:

Phillip Ryan Cleary, 36, passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024, in South Holland, Illinois.

Phil was born on July 19, 1988 in Palos Heights, Illinois to Phillip Otto Cleary and Pamela Jo (Hearn) Shaw.

Phil was preceded in death by his mother, Pamela Jo (Hearn) Shaw and grandparents, Gary Ernst, Arlene Cleary, Phillip Roy Cleary, Anthony Carman, and Lawrence Hearn.

Left to cherish the memory of Phil is his loving wife, Penelope (Winke) Cleary; children, Adallise Winke, Annika Cleary, Phillip P. Cleary, and Peter Cleary; father, Phillip Otto Cleary; mother, Tammy Cleary; siblings, Brandy (Adam) Albers, Jovonna (Robyn) Moore, Lillith (Luis) Zazueta, Brent (Jessica) Shaw, and Megan (Micah) Barnes, and grandparents, H. Kay Ernst, Myrna Hearn, and Robert (Ann) Rhodes.

Phil was an avid weightlifter who pushed himself to do his personal best. He was a man whose strength was matched by his wit, and whose sense of humor brought light into the lives of all who knew him.

Phil was a man deeply rooted in his faith, with an unwavering certainty in the presence and love of God, which guided him through every step of his life.

A loving husband and great dad, Phil had a knack for involving himself wholeheartedly in every aspect of his children's lives. As a playful and involved father, he left an indelible mark on his children, nurturing them with love, intelligence, and the spirit of inquiry. Phil loved to bike ride, skateboard, and be chased around in intense games of tag with his children. His home resonated with the stories he read to his children, a testament to his passion for learning and sharing knowledge.

Phil's enduring devotion to his wife, Penelope, was the cornerstone of his life. They shared a love so deep, spending every possible moment together, turning ordinary days into treasured memories. Together, they explored life's simple pleasures—strolling through their favorite parks, feeling the sand beneath their feet on beachside walks, and bike rides. They found harmony in their shared voices, singing along to the radio together.

Phil's insatiable curiosity about the inner workings of the world drove him to tinker and to create, building not just things, but also building the foundation for his family’s future. He maintained an admirable balance, working full time while simultaneously pursuing his bachelor's degree—a feat that spoke to his driven nature.

Even with life's myriad responsibilities, Phil never lost his childlike wonder and eagerness to learn. His intelligence shone brightly as he taught those around him, drawing them into a world of understanding that will continue to be explored in his honor.

Phil will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered by all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private family visitation for Phil will be on Friday, September 27, 2024, from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Public visitation will be from 12:00pm to 1:00pm with a Funeral Service to be held at 1:00pm at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main St. Niles, MI 49120. Burial will immediately follow at Silverbrook Cemetery.

Pedzinski, Timothy G. 1960-2024

Timothy G. Pedzinski
June 5, 1960 — September 3, 2024

Published on Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home website: 

Timothy Glenn Pedzinski, 64, of Niles, died peacefully Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at Riveridge Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in the comfort of his wife’s presence.

His life began June 5, 1960 in Michigan City, Indiana, born to Norman and Ruth Pedzinski. He married Marcia K. Brown June 14, 1980, in Indianapolis, IN.

Tim owned and operated John’s Glass for over twenty years, appreciating the many friendships he developed there. He spent 15 years in the Army National Guard retiring as a 1st Lieutenant. Tim was a craftsman and loved to build things both big and small. When he was young, he enjoyed time outside with his father, hunting and fishing. In more recent years he enjoyed spending time working on his hobby farm with chickens. Tim was very active in the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA) along with his wife Marcia; they were also active members of ABATE (American Bikers Aimed Towards Education). For most of his adult life, he was an active participant in the worship team at his church, as well as serving in various roles on many DeColores weekends.

Tim will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife Marcia Pedzinski; three daughters, Suzanne Elizabeth Frederick, Rebecca Dawn Pedzinski, Jennifer Tiffany Pedzinski; grandchildren Vaelisara Frederick, Ethan Pedzinski, Wolfram Frederick, Aaliyah Pedzinski, Owen Pedzinski; his mother, Ruth Erickson and his brother, Jonathon (Amy) Pedzinski. He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Pedzinski.

Family and friends will gather Monday, September 9, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services 615 East Main Street Niles. His Celebration of Life will be held at Summit Church 1700 West River Road, on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with a one hour visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at the church.

Tim will be laid to rest in Silverbrook Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers contributions in memory of Tim to be made to Christian Motorcyclists Association, Rhema Riders Chapter #813, Run for the Son.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services. Please share a memory or a message online: HalbritterWickens.com.